Timeline

Heritage classified

Key figures

Origin and history

The Saint-Arbogast church of Rouffach, classified as a Historic Monument since 1841, has a composite architecture reflecting centuries of construction. The oldest part, the transept with its two apsidioles, dates back to the second half of the 11th century. His archatures with lesenes evoke those of the choir of Eschau, suggesting a link with the patron saint of the time. Stylistic influences, such as the superimposition of windows, also recall the elevations of Limburg.

In the 12th century, the arms of the transept were vaulted with broken arch foothills, while a trunk dome, inspired by the Cathedral of Basel, was added in the 13th century. The nave, built in stages, shows an alternation of strong and weak piles, with carved capitals close to those of Notre-Dame de Paris. The choir, rebuilt at the end of the 13th century, adopts a deep style typical of Dominican and Franciscan Conventual churches.

The western massif, begun around 1300, is inspired by the cathedral of Strasbourg for its portal and Notre-Dame de Paris for its radiant rose. The towers, left unfinished, were partially raised in the 15th and 19th centuries. Masters such as Johann Behem and Woelflin de Rouffach worked there, the latter probably being the author of statues of angels on the façade. A major restoration in 1866, led by Maximilien Emile Mimey, included the rise of the north tower, interrupted by the 1870 war.

The materials used vary according to the eras: yellow sandstone for the nave and the choir, crepeed moellons for the lower side, and pink sandstone for the upper parts of the towers (XIXth century). The building, once crowded with boutiques around it, illustrates the architectural and social evolution of Rouffach, between religious heritage and community life.

The protected elements include the entire church, classified as early as 1841. His history also reflected political hazards, such as the interruption of work due to conflicts, particularly in 1870. Today, it remains a major testimony of Alsatian sacred art, mixing Romanesque, Gothic and modern restoration heritages.

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